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Quality affordable childcare is front of mind for young parents, but it should be something we are all considering. It’s not just a family issue it’s an economic issue impacting all Mainers. That is why I was pleased to hear gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson outline his proposal for universal child care.
In Maine, families are struggling to find childcare that is affordable and reliable. Infant care can cost $12,000 to $15,000 a year. This is higher than a typical mortgage payment. The federal government provides guidelines that suggest that childcare should cost no more than 7% of a family’s income, but in Maine families often pay more than 20% of their income.
A recent report from Ready Nation estimates that child care challenges cost the economy more than $120 billion each year in lost earnings and productivity.
Quality affordable child care provides more than economic advantages. It improves language development, social skills, and school readiness and produces long-term benefits for education and economic outcomes.
Troy’s plan proposes that no family will pay more than the 7% of their income, while lower income Mainers will pay less, and before critics ask the question, he has a well outlined plan to pay for it.
Universal child care is not simply a social program — it is a smart investment in Maine’s families and its economy. Jackson’s proposal is an important step toward making that possible. Just one more way that Troy has shared a plan for working Mainers!
Annie Gray
South Thomaston
